Nigel Farage has warned “we’re in for a scary future” after an immigration raid was blocked by protesters.
A man arrested for immigration offences was released after protesters gathered in south-east London for hours to block a van he was in from leaving.
Footage from the scene showed a crowd of people sitting on the ground in front of the vehicle in Peckham, while another clip showed members of the public standing and shouting “let him go”.
Metropolitan Police officers were called to Evan Cook Close shortly after 1.30pm on Saturday “to a report of protesters obstructing immigration officers” and said officers remained at the scene shortly before 5pm.
It is understood the man is Nigerian and was suspected of overstaying his visa.
Speaking about the scenes, Nigel said: “Our cities are now lawless. We are in store for a scary future.”
A spokesman for the Met said: “Officers attended and found a van was being prevented from leaving the location.
“One man has been arrested by immigration enforcement officers for immigration offences.”
Saturday’s incident comes as the Government faces criticism for its immigration policies.
A High Court ruling on Friday paved the way for the first flight taking migrants to Rwanda to go ahead on Tuesday.
The new policy is part of Home Secretary Priti Patel’s bid to curb Channel crossings.
Campaign groups and a union had asked judges to block the deportation flight and said they were “disappointed” and “deeply concerned” for the welfare of those due to be sent to Rwanda, with an appeal currently being heard.
Nigel Farage has reacted to an immigration raid being blocked by protesters
GB News/PA
People have protested against the first migrant flight to Rwanda
Victoria Jones